Chicagoultra.org

Spring and Fall Ultra Marathons on Chicago's Lakefront

Chicago Lakefront Ultras

Ultramarathon races with a multi-decades rich history run semiannually every Spring and Fall along Chicago's scenic Lakefront!

Current Next up in our series of semiannual races is scheduled for Saturday November 1st, 2025 at our Northside Location. Please join us for this sure to be epic ultra adventure!  Review "Race Detail" and "Registration" options by clicking into Chicago Lakefront Ultras on RunRace.net/clu.
Locations For a variety in racing experiences, Chicago Lakefront Ultras maintains two racecourse locations.
Northside Location - Foster Avenue Beach.
Start/Finish Area is near the Foster Avenue Beach House, on the east side of Lake Shore Drive:
5200 N Lake Shore Drive
Chicago, IL  60640
GPS: 41.97716, -87.64757
Map: Chicago Lakefront Ultras 50/50 - Northside Racecourse
Southside Location - Jackson Park.
Start/Finish Area is east side of Lake Shore Drive, at southeast corner of the 63rd Street Beachhouse:
6300e East Hayes Drive
Chicago, IL  60649
GPS: 41.78156, -87.57374
Map: Chicago Lakefront Ultras 50K - Southside Racecourse
Spring Start Time 50 Kilometer: 8:30 AM (9-hour time limit)
20.7-Mile Buildup Run: 8:30 AM
Half Marathon: 9:00 AM
Fall Start Times 50 Mile: 7:00 AM (11-hour time limit)
50 Kilometer: 8:00 AM (9-hour time limit)
Early Start Option By request and approval only... early starts may be granted for those who are in need of extra time to finish their event distance, prior to event cutoff limitations (does not apply to Half Marathon).
If you're in need of an early start you must contact us by Wednesday, three days prior to race day, through email at info@chicagoultra.org.
Be advised that early starters and runners that finish after race time limitations may be recognized as finishers in race results, but may not qualify for overall nor age group awards.
Recognition for Individual and Course Record Performances If your intentions include attempting an official USA Track and Field record, please contact us prior to registration. We request your pre-race notification to ensure that all requirements are met, and you have every opportunity for success!
Awards
  • Buckles with race-dated lanyards for all 50-Mile finishers.
  • Medals with race-dated lanyards for all 50-Kilometer finishers.
  • Medals with race-dated lanyards for all Half Marathon finishers (spring only).
  • Pint-glass awards in 10-year divisions for top Male and Female age group finishers (50M, 50K, Half Marathon).
  • Very special recognition awards to top Overall Male and Female finishers (50M, 50K, Half Marathon).
Official Race Shirt Choice of size, gender-cut, fabric, sleeve-length guaranteed to all participants, who register prior to ten days in advance of race day!
Aid Stations
  • Aid stations will be manned with volunteers and fully stocked with water, energy drinks, soda, and a variety of food items.
  • There will be a drop bag area at the start/finish location for runners to access their own hydration, nutrition, and clothing needs.
  • Runners are strongly encouraged to carry their own bottles or hydration vest in order to eliminate one-use cup waste.
Registration Online Race Detail, Registration, and Who's Registered at RunRace.
       
Packet Pickup All packet pickup and runner check-in will take place onsite at our start/finish area. There is no option for packet pickup prior to race day.
More Information e-mail: info@chicagoultra.org
web: RunRace.net/clu
Volunteer Information Please sign up at Chicago Lakefront Ultras on RunRace.net/clu under the Registration tab. Thank you!